I would like to see more training & usage of digital modes such as APRS for local chat & tracking of disaster area response. Not just tracking members locations but also being able to send & receive locations of things like shelters, fire stations, repeater locations & info, winlink digipeater, affected infrastructures, blocked roadways, flooded areas, fires, etc. this can be done by adding objects into the APRS network.
Being able to map out a disaster area is a powerful tool & helps an organization fully understand the scope of an incident & allows them to augment it better.
Also the use of FLDigi, FLAMP & FLMsg for passing forms, SITREPS, STATREPS, images & other valuable data that can’t be done with only voice comms.
Earlier, Johnny asked that we post our likes and dislikes. Here are my comments.
I would like to see and hear less about the trailer, until it is fully completed and ready for deployment.
I would like to see more:
1. Different brands of radios and equipment.
2. I would like to build wire antennas for other members to use.
3. I would like to hear from others how they use their equipment.
4. But, I would like to hear less about Telnet and talk more about Winlink VARA peer to peer (P-2-P) and VARA HF.
5. I would like to hear about how to set up and use VARA FM (I’m clueless here).
Art Shaddix, NW5R
Hey folks. I haven’t been very active in the group lately but wanted to offer suggestions members can take from what they will. I know the group has undergone some administration as well as operational changes.
Aside from family medical issues a while back, the lack of organization and actual ‘radio duties’ was one reason I pulled back from participation. The weekly nets are great for a muster and to know your station can, but lack in real world deployment testing.
I tried to participate in most activities for a couple of years, doing almost every bike/motorcycle/foot event there was. Participating in one or two round table exercises as well as a few other things offered, like installation of antennas at some of the served agencies. I served as net control on both nets more times than I can remember.
The one time Net Control Round Table was most interesting and introduced several members to actually being net control without the fear of messing up on the air. It could have been longer and maybe in smaller groups for a bit more experience. It could have had some ‘glitches’ thrown in as well. We should thrive on working through those. Over all it was a great service and it prompted a few to actually do a net as net control.
I showed up with my ARES Handbook to be signed off on, but was told that was not needed. I tried for passing routine digital messages, casual in nature, to be passed between members (like a chain letter kind of thing)for those who had and wanted to become more proficient in that important skill. That was not done much by many. Once there was a Fox and Hound Hunt scheduled, but it was cancelled, I think for lack of interest.
I understand participation cannot be forced, especially in a charitable type organizations/hobbies, but learning the skills and readiness can be a part of the pride one has knowing they have practiced. Be it motocross racing, hunting, firearms proficiency or flying a plane, if you do not practice these skills you lose them. An in a hobby such as radio, not only technology, but preparedness, can get away from you in time.
I once proposed various SETs to leadership, for members and was told ‘the guys don’t want to spend their Saturdays playing radio.’ So that went no farther.
I always wanted to do more actual operation in an EMCOM situation, such as remote site deployment to various parking lots and or side of the road set ups around the County. I envisioned some of the more experienced members teamed with lesser ones, and with their go boxes. Maybe teams of 3 or so, mustering at a rally point and receiving their assignments on the spot, actually being deployed across the County and passing information related to a subject.
It could be anything like the count of certain color of cars passing by along with the temp and other information. All passed voice and digital to relay stations as needed or dictated and even to a command center if not THE command center. These things also to be logged locally as well since that is a skill needed in reality.
Perhaps an all day exercise with some members woking the first half and others coming in for the second half of the day. Monitors driving around the sites seeing what is working and what is not and passing out water and snacks as well as shuttling members as needed. Allow different members to try their hand at Net Control also.
This would give real life deployment experience, canopies, tables, coolers, alternate power supplies/generators and a chance for newer members to see how different go boxes and deployment packs work…or don’t. Some sites can be ‘tailgate’ sites, working out of a vehicle.
Having law enforcement and maybe the FD and DHS come by for water and to say hello as well as some display to the citizens promoting them to ask questions and observe, giving a temporary public relations liaison a chance to practice their skills. This getting the organization out there in the public eye, social media, news maybe even national through the ARRL.
After, at another time, the discussion and comparing of notes for accuracy, needs not covered, etc…generally, the After Action Meeting and Report, by all interested members to be a part of.
This is a large undertaking, but then so is the real thing, which few actually have experience with. I guess it could be a kin to the CERT Rodeo for those who are familiar with that, but without the scoring. It can also start small and build if interest does.
On a smaller scale, a ‘parking lot’ style, QRP, simplex exercise, set up in a large parking lot or area such as the Lone Star Convention Center and surrounding Fairgrounds open areas, or the Woodland Training center grounds. Stations deployed at certain markers, still with canopies and coolers, just as if remote. Monitors, members and even the public can walk or cart around checking and distributing, just as might be done in a real county wide event.
I am not sure how popular this might be for citizens, but hot dogs soft drinks and or BBQ sold for charitable donations might prove to be beneficial, maybe even some entertainment.
SET writing and planning is an art and skill in itself, where a team can come up with ideas and situations. Adding in the glitches and other happenings to be a part of the controlled information passed and logged. Then the planning of the actual events with our group leaders making sure all is safe and sound within the realm of what we as Amateur Radio Communicators do and within the ARRL guidelines.
If not these larger scale SETs, perhaps, in a parking lot somewhere, members bring their go boxes for display and use, demonstrating the various ideas and takes on go boxes and alternate power, while actually usable. Making contact with some stay at home members at the mic to respond and log contacts.
Along other lines, antenna building, not only VHF/UHF but HF also. Multi band, single band, theory, design, acquire the parts then build and testing in small groups. Put out several different antennas or take a survey of members first and second choice antennas to make for their own.
Understanding, reading and creating Smith charts, bringing it down to a simpler process with actual doing.
Using antenna analyzers and devices is aways a great study.
I was always curious as to why the organization has not set itself to a particular software for members to learn for EMCOM. Then Winlink came along and now seems to encompass most of the needs. Perhaps 2 or 3 part class on that, given yearly, with hands on radio for more use and education of some of the finer points of the software.
Then there is propagation matters…far too many parts to that for some of us but the various ways of knowing ahead, or at an instant, what the odds of reaching a distant station may be. Or even location as in the recent struggles to get to the Texas ARES Net.
Anyway, thanks for letting me use up a couple of years worth of blog space. If you made it this far you are either bored or interested.
For Sale
Vertex Standard / Yeasu VX-5R tri-band (2 meter, 440, 6 meter) hand held radio. With speaker mic, charger, and inside the ear speaker. With box annd instruction manual. Original…unmodified. $125.
Art Shaddix, NW5R, 713-553-6178
For sale
ICOM 2730. Dual band (2/440) mobile transceiver. Fixed or remote head and mounting bracket. Complete with box and instruction manual. $150.
Art Shaddix, NW5R, 713-553-6178
1. Would like to propose that ALL active members of ARES of MoCoTX be added to the current “duty roster” of NCS’s. I had this experience a number of years ago as a member of the NW quadrant. It helped me immensely. We had training topics we provided during the net (a script that was read). Richard (URB) can provide more details on the topics..
2. Propose training by Tom (TOM) on his magnificent logging spreadsheet. It is a fantastic tool for doing logging during nets.
3. To encourage all members to become familiar with the Incident Command System, I propose a 1 month deadline to complete IC100c (Basics of ICS) and then an in-meeting quiz of 10 questions for those who wish to compete. I will provide a $25 cash prize to the winner. Tie decided by flip of a coin.
FORSALE: Buddi Pole HF antenna with tripod, carry bag, and all accessories.
$200.00 contact Art @ 713-553-6178
I am looking for a HF power meter that will handle at least 600 watts. 281-923-2169
Monday – 8:00 PM Montgomery County Amateur Radio Group – 147.140 MHz + /136.5 Hz (tone) – N5KWN repeater Grangerland
Tuesday – 8:00 PM ARES – Montgomery County – 147.020 MHz + /136.5 Hz (tone) – W5CXO repeater Grangerland
Monday through Friday – 7290 Traffic Net, 10 AM to 12 Noon and 1 PM to 2 PM, 7290 MHz (40 meters).
Saturday – 7290 Traffic Net, 10 AM to 12 Noon.
I would like to see more training & usage of digital modes such as APRS for local chat & tracking of disaster area response. Not just tracking members locations but also being able to send & receive locations of things like shelters, fire stations, repeater locations & info, winlink digipeater, affected infrastructures, blocked roadways, flooded areas, fires, etc. this can be done by adding objects into the APRS network.
Being able to map out a disaster area is a powerful tool & helps an organization fully understand the scope of an incident & allows them to augment it better.
Also the use of FLDigi, FLAMP & FLMsg for passing forms, SITREPS, STATREPS, images & other valuable data that can’t be done with only voice comms.
Earlier, Johnny asked that we post our likes and dislikes. Here are my comments.
I would like to see and hear less about the trailer, until it is fully completed and ready for deployment.
I would like to see more:
1. Different brands of radios and equipment.
2. I would like to build wire antennas for other members to use.
3. I would like to hear from others how they use their equipment.
4. But, I would like to hear less about Telnet and talk more about Winlink VARA peer to peer (P-2-P) and VARA HF.
5. I would like to hear about how to set up and use VARA FM (I’m clueless here).
Art Shaddix, NW5R
Hey folks. I haven’t been very active in the group lately but wanted to offer suggestions members can take from what they will. I know the group has undergone some administration as well as operational changes.
Aside from family medical issues a while back, the lack of organization and actual ‘radio duties’ was one reason I pulled back from participation. The weekly nets are great for a muster and to know your station can, but lack in real world deployment testing.
I tried to participate in most activities for a couple of years, doing almost every bike/motorcycle/foot event there was. Participating in one or two round table exercises as well as a few other things offered, like installation of antennas at some of the served agencies. I served as net control on both nets more times than I can remember.
The one time Net Control Round Table was most interesting and introduced several members to actually being net control without the fear of messing up on the air. It could have been longer and maybe in smaller groups for a bit more experience. It could have had some ‘glitches’ thrown in as well. We should thrive on working through those. Over all it was a great service and it prompted a few to actually do a net as net control.
I showed up with my ARES Handbook to be signed off on, but was told that was not needed. I tried for passing routine digital messages, casual in nature, to be passed between members (like a chain letter kind of thing)for those who had and wanted to become more proficient in that important skill. That was not done much by many. Once there was a Fox and Hound Hunt scheduled, but it was cancelled, I think for lack of interest.
I understand participation cannot be forced, especially in a charitable type organizations/hobbies, but learning the skills and readiness can be a part of the pride one has knowing they have practiced. Be it motocross racing, hunting, firearms proficiency or flying a plane, if you do not practice these skills you lose them. An in a hobby such as radio, not only technology, but preparedness, can get away from you in time.
I once proposed various SETs to leadership, for members and was told ‘the guys don’t want to spend their Saturdays playing radio.’ So that went no farther.
I always wanted to do more actual operation in an EMCOM situation, such as remote site deployment to various parking lots and or side of the road set ups around the County. I envisioned some of the more experienced members teamed with lesser ones, and with their go boxes. Maybe teams of 3 or so, mustering at a rally point and receiving their assignments on the spot, actually being deployed across the County and passing information related to a subject.
It could be anything like the count of certain color of cars passing by along with the temp and other information. All passed voice and digital to relay stations as needed or dictated and even to a command center if not THE command center. These things also to be logged locally as well since that is a skill needed in reality.
Perhaps an all day exercise with some members woking the first half and others coming in for the second half of the day. Monitors driving around the sites seeing what is working and what is not and passing out water and snacks as well as shuttling members as needed. Allow different members to try their hand at Net Control also.
This would give real life deployment experience, canopies, tables, coolers, alternate power supplies/generators and a chance for newer members to see how different go boxes and deployment packs work…or don’t. Some sites can be ‘tailgate’ sites, working out of a vehicle.
Having law enforcement and maybe the FD and DHS come by for water and to say hello as well as some display to the citizens promoting them to ask questions and observe, giving a temporary public relations liaison a chance to practice their skills. This getting the organization out there in the public eye, social media, news maybe even national through the ARRL.
After, at another time, the discussion and comparing of notes for accuracy, needs not covered, etc…generally, the After Action Meeting and Report, by all interested members to be a part of.
This is a large undertaking, but then so is the real thing, which few actually have experience with. I guess it could be a kin to the CERT Rodeo for those who are familiar with that, but without the scoring. It can also start small and build if interest does.
On a smaller scale, a ‘parking lot’ style, QRP, simplex exercise, set up in a large parking lot or area such as the Lone Star Convention Center and surrounding Fairgrounds open areas, or the Woodland Training center grounds. Stations deployed at certain markers, still with canopies and coolers, just as if remote. Monitors, members and even the public can walk or cart around checking and distributing, just as might be done in a real county wide event.
I am not sure how popular this might be for citizens, but hot dogs soft drinks and or BBQ sold for charitable donations might prove to be beneficial, maybe even some entertainment.
SET writing and planning is an art and skill in itself, where a team can come up with ideas and situations. Adding in the glitches and other happenings to be a part of the controlled information passed and logged. Then the planning of the actual events with our group leaders making sure all is safe and sound within the realm of what we as Amateur Radio Communicators do and within the ARRL guidelines.
If not these larger scale SETs, perhaps, in a parking lot somewhere, members bring their go boxes for display and use, demonstrating the various ideas and takes on go boxes and alternate power, while actually usable. Making contact with some stay at home members at the mic to respond and log contacts.
Along other lines, antenna building, not only VHF/UHF but HF also. Multi band, single band, theory, design, acquire the parts then build and testing in small groups. Put out several different antennas or take a survey of members first and second choice antennas to make for their own.
Understanding, reading and creating Smith charts, bringing it down to a simpler process with actual doing.
Using antenna analyzers and devices is aways a great study.
I was always curious as to why the organization has not set itself to a particular software for members to learn for EMCOM. Then Winlink came along and now seems to encompass most of the needs. Perhaps 2 or 3 part class on that, given yearly, with hands on radio for more use and education of some of the finer points of the software.
Then there is propagation matters…far too many parts to that for some of us but the various ways of knowing ahead, or at an instant, what the odds of reaching a distant station may be. Or even location as in the recent struggles to get to the Texas ARES Net.
Anyway, thanks for letting me use up a couple of years worth of blog space. If you made it this far you are either bored or interested.
My best wishes to all.
J. Kevin Lowry
K5ABX
For Sale
Vertex Standard / Yeasu VX-5R tri-band (2 meter, 440, 6 meter) hand held radio. With speaker mic, charger, and inside the ear speaker. With box annd instruction manual. Original…unmodified. $125.
Art Shaddix, NW5R, 713-553-6178
For sale
ICOM 2730. Dual band (2/440) mobile transceiver. Fixed or remote head and mounting bracket. Complete with box and instruction manual. $150.
Art Shaddix, NW5R, 713-553-6178
July 10, 2025 ARES of Montgomery County TX meeting. Connecting PL-259 connectors to coax. Solder and Crimp styles presented.
1. Would like to propose that ALL active members of ARES of MoCoTX be added to the current “duty roster” of NCS’s. I had this experience a number of years ago as a member of the NW quadrant. It helped me immensely. We had training topics we provided during the net (a script that was read). Richard (URB) can provide more details on the topics..
2. Propose training by Tom (TOM) on his magnificent logging spreadsheet. It is a fantastic tool for doing logging during nets.
3. To encourage all members to become familiar with the Incident Command System, I propose a 1 month deadline to complete IC100c (Basics of ICS) and then an in-meeting quiz of 10 questions for those who wish to compete. I will provide a $25 cash prize to the winner. Tie decided by flip of a coin.